Now commonly known as Mt. Veronica, this female sacred mountain was originally called Wayna Willka (meaning “Sacred Maiden”). Standing next to her partner Mt. Salkantay, she played a very important ceremonial role in the Inca times, as she was considered the protector of agriculture. For this reason, the ancient Peruvians offered her ceremonies to improve the harvest, which continues to this day.

Salkantay (6,271 m) is one of the highest impressive mountains in the Cusco region, and dominates the region all the way to Machu Picchu and beyond. With an impressive triangular peak that is visible from great distances, this spectacular mountain was revered in Inca times and continues to be so today. While Apu Ausangate is higher than Salkantay, they are both considered brother mountain kings of the Cusco region.

Mt. Ausangate is the highest mountain in the region of Cusco, and one of the highest of Peru. To the Cusqueñians, Affectionately called “Tayta” (Father), He is the most powerful "Apu" (the deity that is the spirit of the mountain) of all the Apus in Cusco. Ausangate is guardian the wild animals of the Andes, and guides us to live in harmony with the world of nature and with the world of the deities.